WATCH: Dean Previews 6A-I Championship Game With Norman North Coach Brent Barnes

Norman North and Tulsa Union battle for the 6A state championship Friday night in Tulsa. John Holcomb and I are anxious to call the game that will be seen here on News9 and in Tulsa on KOTV.

I dropped by practice in Norman yesterday and saw an hour and a half workout in shorts and shoulder pads. Head Coach Brent Barnes, an outstanding teacher and leader of young men, was hands-on at practice, spending most of his time on the offensive end.

The Timberwolves take on the unenviable task of beating a perennial power twice in one season. Union is a powerhouse and handled an emotional Jenks team in the semis. I’m expecting lots of points as both teams have sound and explosive schemes and multiple playmakers.

North is led by senior QB Brandon Marquardt, who reminds me of a high school version of Baker Mayfield. Not big, not a speed-burner, not a cannon arm. But a winner, a leader, bright, sound, accurate with plenty of arm strength, and someone who has great command of what Barnes is trying to do with the offense. Multiple big-play receivers are at Marquardt’s disposal, along with what seems to be a capable offensive line along with a couple of backs who are talented and utilized expertly by Barnes.

Here’s our interview with Brent Barnes before Monday’s workout on the Norman North campus.